In this episode of The One Behind the Lens, Kate DeCoste dives into the power of saying “no” in your photography business—and in life. She shares her personal journey of discovering what truly lights her up, letting go of the work that drains her, and embracing the messy middle of her creative story. From weddings and newborn sessions that weren’t a fit, to finding freedom and focus in high school senior and headshot sessions, Kate shows how saying no can lead to clarity, joy, and creative growth.
What We Cover (Timestamps):
[0:00] Welcome back, Shutter Squad—introducing the theme of saying no
[2:30] The messy middle: where anxiety, doubt, and growth intersect[
5:10] No as a complete sentence: freeing yourself and others
[7:40] Kate’s personal story: why weddings and newborns weren’t her fit
[12:20] The anxiety and pressure of shooting weddings—lessons from theater
[16:50] How saying no opened the door to what Kate truly loves: seniors & headshots[19:30] The Photo Confession Booth: sharing your photography fears, habits, or guilty pleasures[
22:00] Kate’s confession: missing an important bride & mother moment at a wedding
[27:40] Lessons learned from missed moments and why shot lists matter
[30:10] Weekly challenge: identify what you’ve been saying yes to that doesn’t bring you joy and practice saying no
Quotes to Remember:"
No is a complete sentence. It’s one of the kindest things you can do for yourself—and for others." – Kate DeCoste
"Saying no helped me hone my craft. It helped me get really good at what I love." – Kate DeCoste
"No is a boundary, no is a filter, no is a complete sentence—and no can change your business, your creativity, and your life." – Kate DeCoste
Resources Mentioned:
Shutter Squad Freebies: www.katedecostephotography.com/photographers
🌐 Kate’s website & booking info: katedecostephotography.com
💡 Aller Enterprises: https://tayloraller.myflodesk.com/freeplanner
Connect with Kate:
📸 Instagram: @katedecoste
🌐 Website: www.katedecostephotography.com